Balcony Waterproofing
A balcony seems small and therefore unimportant, yet it is one of the building elements most frequently responsible for water affecting the flat below. The problem usually originates not from the tile grout joints but from the absence of waterproofing beneath the tiles, or from insufficient level difference at the door threshold.
A site inspection establishes where the water is passing; the solution is specified in writing. Where damage has been caused to a neighbouring flat, the building element responsible for the liability is also reported.
Scope
- Identifying the source of water reaching the flat below or the facade
- Specifying the under-tile waterproofing system
- Door threshold level difference and falls solution
- Assessment of drip edge and fascia detail
- Inspection of the relationship between balustrade fixings and waterproofing
- Quotation comparison and application supervision
Most common errors
No waterproofing under tilesTiles are laid directly onto the screed without any waterproofing beneath. Water passes below the tiles and reaches the flat below.
Insufficient level difference at thresholdThere is not enough height difference at the door threshold; rainwater runs indoors.
Falls in the wrong directionFalls are given towards the building rather than away from it; water ponds and works its way into the wall.
No corner reinforcementNo reinforcing tape is used at the wall-to-floor junction; the most critical detail is left unsealed.
No drip edgeThe fascia concrete is left without a drip edge; water runs down the face of the building and eventually damages the facade insulation.
Balustrade fixing holes left openThe holes drilled for balustrade fixings are not sealed after installation; each hole becomes a separate leak point.
How it works
Site inspection
The building is visited in person. Neither diagnosis nor solution is discussed before this step is complete.
Written report and technical specification
Findings, cause and required work are put in writing: which product, which thickness, in which sequence, with which detail.
Line-by-line quotation evaluation
What is to be applied to which surface, how many square metres, which materials and the cost of each item are made clearly visible.
Application supervision
Where required, the consultant is present on site; critical details are checked before they are covered and non-conformances are reported in writing.
Make a request
When the request form is completed with location and scope, the enquiry arrives with the context needed to give a direct response.
